The November 2015 Bothell City Council Candidates have filed with the state and are getting ready for the coming elections.

In order to start the conversation concerning the upcoming elections, The Bothell Reporter has requested the same questions from each candidate. This is only the first of the coverage The Bothell Reporter will be giving during the City Council elections.

Today, we have a question and answer session with James McNeal, who is running for position 4 in the 2015 Bothell City Council Elections.

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[Deanna Isaacs] What is your background experience?

[James McNeal] Raising community awareness on issues and obtaining support from state, county and surrounding community leaders for the city of Bothell.

[DI] What skills or experiences do you believe will help you on the council?

[JM] Understanding the responsibility that a council member is elected to serve the community. I will listen to the community so I can make the most informed decisions.

[DI] What motivated you to run for city council?

[JM] I’m running for City Council to protect what makes Bothell a great place for residents, families, and businesses to build their futures.

[DI] Why run now, rather than in previous years? (OR if you’ve previously run) What made you decide to run this year versus other years?

[JM] I want to continue working on important issues, as I’m currently doing, by protecting a special open space and preserving a piece of Bothell’s history.

[DI] What issues are you concerned with the most?

[JM] My top priority is preserving Bothell’s quality of life and unique neighborhoods, while embracing smart growth that benefits us all. I’ll focus on sensible traffic/transportation options, parks and open space and public safety.

[DI] What issues do you believe are of importance to Bothell?

[JM] Members of the community are clear on what matters to them most. I promise to bring openness and transparency; always listening to the community and ensuring every vote I make for you counts.

[DI] Why did you pick this position over other positions, open or otherwise?

[JM] I want to continue work on a vibrant parks system, traffic congestion and economic development as our city continues to grow as Bill Evans was know as a parks guy.

[DI] Do you believe the people of Bothell will support you and why?

[JM] I’m proudly endorsed by city, county, state officials, and members of our community. I will continue to work for everyone who calls Bothell home.

[DI] What do you believe is the biggest challenge facing the Bothell City Council?

[JM] A comprehensive plan to protect the policies that make Bothell a great place for residents, families, and businesses to build their futures.

[DI] What are you looking forward to most about the upcoming election?

[JM] Meeting neighbors, Bothell families and business owners. Learning what’s important to them and working to improve Bothell for all current and future generations.